The Western Canadian Wheat Growers are encouraging farmers to have their say on the proposed Code of Practice for Grain.

The code covers seven key areas from Nutrient Management to Pest and Pesticide Management, Soil and Water Management, Seed Selection and use, Land Use and Wildlife to Human Health and Wellness.

The Code of Practice for Canadian grain farmers was developed by the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Crops.

An open consultation process began in November 2020 and is expected to wrap up in February.

The Wheat Growers want to see more farmers review the code and take part in the consultation process, so they fully understand what the implications are on their farm.

Saskatchewan Director Jeff Bennett says its important that farmers take an active role in this by reviewing the proposal and giving their feedback.

"I think the more farmers can get involved and be comfortable, familiar with what the modules look like. What is recommended vs what is required and just know what this responsible grain looks like the more well-rounded it will be for producers."

Bennett, who farms in the Dodsland area, outlines some of the proposals that are being put forward.

"It can be as in-depth as how many hours your workers are supposed to work during the busy seasons, all the way to soil testing every three to five years. There's also some environmental wetland guidelines in there, as far as, how close you can seed or work the ground to trees or unseedable acres."

Bennett notes according to the outline on the website they hope to have the Code of Practice ready for implementation by May 2021.

More information on the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Crops Code of Practice for Grain can be found here.